This article is from page 2 of the 2006-08-01 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 2 JPG
PLANS are to be lodged with Clare County Council for a “world class” €20 million greyhound stadium in south-east Clare, it emerged yesterday.
Bord na gCon has lodged plans with the council for the 3,000 capacity stadium in close proximity to the Two Mile Inn Hotel, on the fringes of Limerick city.
The plan is to construct the five storey stadium and a three storey office building at Meelick, which will employ 100 people.
The plan is to also include betting facilities, two restaurants and four bars with a dance floor and function areas.
The Irish Greyhound Board has lodged an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) with the application.
According to PR and Marketing Executive with the Irish Greyhound Board, Patricia O’Grady, the project is to be funded through the sale of existing assets, tote profit and a government grant.
Ms O’Grady said that the breakdown of the numbers employed would be 30 per cent full-time and 70 per cent part-time.
“We expect the stadium to be operational by 2008. The anticipated annual turnover in relation to the development is €8 million to €10 million.”
Ms O’Grady said that the Meelick site was chosen for a number of reasons, including excellent road access from all areas, proximity to an urban centre, good profile, high visibility and competitive pricing.
The stadium has been desgned by Hamilton Architects and Ms O’Grady said: “we would like to thanks all the owners, breeders, trainers and general public in Limerick and Clare for their patience on this matter and we look forward to providing the people of the Mid West with a world class greyhound stadium.”
Cllr Cathal Crowe (FF) said: “I’m fully in support of the application. It is a great boost in terms of employment. I am assured by Bord na gCon that there will be a very positive spin-off for the local community.
“I am absolutely thrilled. It allows Meelick to progress forward, while allowing the village to retain its rural character.
“It will provide employment for the area as well.”
“There are several dog breeders in Meelick area who are thrilled at the prospect of the stadium. Clare has a strong tradition with dog breeding and dog-racing and I know from speaking with Limerick dog breeders that they are also looking forward to racing their dogs in Clare.”
A decision is due on the application later this year.